Skip to main content
NCAA FCS

Estes StadiumConway, Arkansas

Central Arkansas Bears

👥
Capacity
10,000
🏆
Conference
UAC
📅
Opened
1939
🌱
Surface
N/A

📖About Estes Stadium

First Security Field at Estes Stadium opened in 1939 and is named after legendary coach Dan Estes, who led the Bears from 1915 to 1932. The 10,000-seat facility is known for its unique purple and gray turf installed in 2011, creating one of the most distinctive playing surfaces in college football. Major renovations in 1998 and 2003 modernized both sides of the stadium.

🏛️History

Origins

Built in 1939 to provide a permanent home for Central Arkansas football. Named after Dan Estes, who coached the Bears for 17 years and established the foundation of the program.

Major Renovations

1998$5M renovation rebuilt west (home) side with dressing rooms, weight room, meeting rooms, coaches offices, and training facilities
2003East side rebuilt with visitors locker room, training area, concessions, and storage
2007State-of-the-art videoboard installed in south end zone, field renamed First Security Field
2011Purple & gray turf installed, creating iconic unique playing surface
201212 luxury suites constructed above east stands atop Bear Hall

Notable Moments

2011Purple & gray turf unveiled, becoming rallying point for UCA community

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

West side home stands offer covered seating. Luxury suites provide premium views and amenities. The unique purple turf creates a memorable visual experience from any seat.

Parking Tips

Bruce Street tailgating opens at noon. Stadium gates open at 4:00 PM for 6:00 PM kickoffs.

Game Day

Experience one of college football's most unique playing surfaces. The purple and gray turf and intimate stadium atmosphere create an intimidating environment for opponents.

🗺️Local Recommendations

🍺Bars & Drinks

O'Malley's Irish Grill

$$

Irish pub with diverse beer selection and pub fare.

The Rogue Roundabout

$$

Local favorite for drinks and casual dining.

Brick & Forge Taproom

$$

Craft beer taproom with rotating selection.

🍽️Restaurants

Mike's Place

$$

Popular local restaurant known for home-style cooking.

R & M Southern Eatery

$$

Southern comfort food and BBQ.

Big Bad Breakfast

$$

Breakfast and brunch spot with Southern specialties.

💡 Great for morning games. Arrives early - popular spot.

🅿️Parking Options

🎉

Bruce Street Tailgating Area

Tailgate📍 0.2 miles

💡 Opens at noon. Popular tailgating destination.

🅿️

Campus Parking Lots

Lot📍 0.1-0.3 miles

💡 Multiple lots around stadium. Fill up 2-3 hours before kickoff.

Suggest a Tip

Know a great bar, restaurant, hotel, attraction, or parking spot near Estes Stadium? Share it with us.

Stadiums Near Estes Stadium

References

Content sourced from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA) and official team sites. Additional information verified against public sources.